Slijterij/distileerderij Museum van Kleef

Heritage museum · Zuidwal

2

@atlasobscura

"According to local legend, when Vincent van Gogh wanted a little liquid inspiration during his time living in the Hague, the artist had one favorite place: Van Kleef. The only remaining genever producer in the Hague, Van Kleef dates back to 1842. Nowadays, while the liquor is distilled off-site, the historic distillery’s space features a museum and shop where interested visitors can learn about the distilling process, taste various Dutch liquors, and purchase a bottle made according to historical recipes. Invented as early as the 13th century, genever was originally consumed as medicine. Early genevers were made by distilling malt wine to 50 percent alcohol, and then flavoring the not-very-tasty mixture with a heavy dose of herbs and spices, especially juniper (for which it is named: jenever means “juniper” in Dutch). The most well-known varieties are old genever and young genever, but their difference isn’t in how long the liquor is aged. The original “old” genever is distinguished by its rich malt wine flavors and herbal notes. The newer variety, developed in the early 1900s, is known as “young.” Lacking the complexities of its predecessor, young genever is less expensive and, as a result, gained popularity after World War II. Both varieties, as well as a selection of other traditional Dutch liquors, are available for sample and purchase at Van Kleef. Van Kleef is also home to a beverage with a slightly bawdier history. Kruìde Baggâh, an herbal bitter, can be translated to mean either “mud” made of herbs or, more eloquently, “shitty herbs.” Some say this refers to the less-than-clean water it was originally made with, which required a hefty dose of flavoring to cover up the taste. Contemporary buyers shouldn’t fear, however: While it’s retained its herbal kick, the modern liqueur is safe to drink. At the museum, visitors can admire drankorgels, or “liquor organs,” rows of barrels that customers would historically tap to check if their choice liquor was in stock. Another object demonstrates the historical centrality of the distillery to community life. In the Hague’s very first telephone book, from 1883, the number one spot (literally: the telephone number was just “1”) went not to the police or local government, but to Van Kleef. If only there was a similarly simple number to call for gourmet emergencies today. Know Before You Go The staff speaks English, Dutch, German, and French. Tastings are inexpensive, and often free if you buy a bottle. The store is open in the afternoons, while the museum requires an advanced reservation." - Collector of Experiences, wanderlustingk

Van Kleef Museum and Distillery – The Hague, Netherlands - Gastro Obscura

Lange Beestenmarkt 109, 2512 ED Den Haag, Netherlands Get directions

museumvankleef.nl
@vankleef1842

2 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

Zebedeus

Restaurant · Kortenbos

Zebedeüs in Den Haag is a cozy spot by the Grote Kerk, serving up fresh local fare and refined cocktails in a laid-back yet polished atmosphere.

0 Postcards

Restaurant Zheng

Restaurant · Kortenbos

Zheng transforms your dinner into a luxurious tapestry of Imperial China with meticulously crafted small plates, stunning decor, and unforgettable Peking duck.

1 Postcard

Paleis Hotel

Hotel · Kortenbos

Polished rooms with vibrant decor & flat-screen TVs in an elegant hotel featuring a cozy lounge. In a 17th-century building on a narrow street with shops, this elegant hotel is a 4-minute walk from the nearest tram stop, and a 9-minute walk from both Mauritshuis art museum and Noordeinde Palace. Featuring vivid, formal decor and furnishings, the refined rooms offer flat-screen TVs, desks and free Wi-Fi, plus en suite bathrooms with designer toiletries. Distinctive touches include canopy beds and Louis XVI-style fabrics. Upgraded rooms offer sitting areas and heated bathroom floors; some have separate soaking tubs. Room service is available. A breakfast buffet is served in a polished dining room for a fee. There's also a guest lounge with sofas.

0 Postcards

Restaurant Fouquet By Meere | Private Dining Den Haag

Restaurant · Willemspark

Fouquet offers an elegant dive into seasonally inspired French-Mediterranean cuisine, where meticulous preparation meets a cozy and attentive dining atmosphere.

1 Postcard

Haley's Comet Breakfastclub

Brunch restaurant · Zeeheldenkwartier

Haley's Comet offers an inviting, bohemian escape with all-day breakfast, specialty coffee, retro decor, and a playful vibe reminiscent of the '70s and '80s.

2 Postcards

B-aparthotel Kennedy The Hague

Hotel · Zorgvliet

Discover sleek studios and apartments in the embassy district with convenient access to the city and amenities like a gym and bike rentals.

0 Postcards

De Basiliek

Restaurant · Uilebomen

De Basiliek charms with its vibrant decor and cozy terrace, serving fresh Mediterranean dishes and an impressive selection of wines that keep diners coming back.

1 Postcard

BLOEM

Restaurant · Uilebomen

With a cozy, granny-chic vibe and delectable homemade cakes, this café is the perfect spot for a delightful high tea or a casual lunch.

0 Postcards

Brasserie 't Ogenblik

Brasserie · Kortenbos

At Brasserie ’t Ogenblik in the heart of Den Haag, experience delightful bites and warm, attentive service in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

0 Postcards

House of Tribes

Coffee shop · Uilebomen

Nestled in The Hague, this cozy café offers tasty sandwiches, good coffee, and a chill vibe perfect for working or unwinding outdoors.

2 Postcards